Entomological Field Surveys in Selected High-Risk Dengue Transmission Areas

The Challenge

Dengue fever has become a major challenge in Asia and other parts of the world.

Overview and Objectives

URC executed an entomological field survey in selected high-risk dengue transmission areas in Hlaing Tha Yar Township. This surveillance system provided information on mosquito populations in target areas and was a necessary first step before potentially moving into dengue control activities.

The project also studied the use of Wolbachia, a natural bacteria present in up to 60% of insect species, including some mosquitoes. However, Wolbachia is not usually found in the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the primary species responsible for transmitting human viruses such as dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika.

For many years, scientists have been studying Wolbachia, looking for ways to use it to potentially control the mosquitoes that transmit human viruses. The World Mosquito Program’s research has shown that when introduced into the Aedes aegypti mosquito, Wolbachia can help to reduce the transmission of these viruses to people. This important discovery has the potential to transform the fight against life-threatening mosquito-borne diseases.

The project is supported by the Australian government through Monash University, a public research university based in Melbourne, Australia.